Havertz recalls sense for the big occasion
Kai Havertz’s winning goals for Chelsea in the Champions League final in May 2021 and Club World Cup final earlier this year ensured he will always hold a place in the hearts of the club’s fans, but even diehard Blues supporters must admit the German has failed to show his best form under either Thomas Tuchel or Graham Potter this season.
Havertz’s questionable form came to a head this month, when he was replaced at half-time during Chelsea’s 2-0 win at Aston Villa – when they were lucky to go into the break without conceding – and was anonymous in the draw at Brentford a few days later.
The 23-year-old found himself left on the bench for the duration of last weekend’s tie with Manchester United and could have had no complaints with Potter’s decision after registering just two goals and no assists in 14 games.
Havertz was recalled for the trip to Red Bull Salzburg and, while he was more involved than on his previous outings, he continued to frustrate and passed up a glorious scoring opportunity when he aimed a weak header straight at the goalkeeper in the first half.
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